The Electric Moped: Fun and Economical Transportation

Updated on September 27, 2011

Getting Around on an Electric Moped

Mopeds, or scooters, whichever name you prefer, are smaller versions of motorcycles. Less powerful, more energy conscious, and less expensive to operate. They are perfect for young and old alike and are ideal for those who wish to travel in a more environmentally and economically conscious way. Of course, there are both gas and electric moped scooters available.

The electric moped however, offers a few distinct advantages.

Learn more about them and see some popular models on this page.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Electric Mopeds and Scooters

So what sets an electric moped apart from other forms of transportation, including gas powered mopeds?

An electric moped uses no gas so if fuel prices skyrocket, you'll be unaffected. Instead they use rechargeable batteries that cost pennies a day to charge. The largest cost associated with the ongoing use of one of these mopeds, is to replace the battery periodically. Some of these batteries can last, 3, 5, 7 or even 10 years. Battery costs depend upon the type of battery. An SLA battery may cost $100 while a lithium ion battery pack may cost $500.

For this same reason, an electric moped has no fumes, no noxious emissions, and creates no pollution. You also won't get fuel on your hands or clothes while on the way to work!

Most electric mopeds have rear mounted motors and they runs with no chains or belts. This means fewer mishaps and no belt or chain to replace.

An electric moped is quiet, they provide a fun, peaceful ride.

An electric moped generally offers a more limited top end speed and range than a gas powered vehicle. Some will have a 20 mile range while others top out around 35-40 miles. For those commuting to work, some have removable batteries that allow you to recharge at work and then run another 20-40 miles back home. Clearly, these electric mopeds aren't intended for highway use with their limited speed.

With their limited speed and distance, these electric mopeds have fewer restrictions placed upon them. They are generally viewed as power assisted bikes and therefore don't have to be registered and the driver doesn't have to be licensed. This opens up possibilities for some kids or for those who simply want to control costs. Laws vary by state, look up your state via the link at the bottom of this page.

An electric moped allows even those with limited mobility to get out and about without having to drive a car.

Choosing an Electric Moped

While price is certainly a consideration when purchasing an electric moped there are other things that are important:

Operating costsSome electric mopeds use SLA batteries which are significantly less expensive to replace. However, SLA batteries tend to have a shorter life span. SLA batteries are estimated to last 1-2 years while lithium ion batteries are estimated to average 3-5 years. SLA batteries may cost $100 to replace, while Li-Ion battery packs may cost $500. The cost difference between the two evens out based upon the different life expectancies. However, you'll need to budget accordingly.

Range and SpeedYou'll need to think about how far you will be going. For instance, if your commute to work is 22 miles and a moped has a 20 mile range, it might not make the distance. You'll need to find one with greater range, or consider...

Removable Battery or Optional Back Up BatteriesIf you have a need for an electric moped that travels further per charge, you can also find some that allow you to remove the battery, take into your office, and charge it as you work. This is an option, of course, only if you are communting to a location where you can recharge the battery in a few hours. Another possiblity is purchasing a 2nd battery to provide more power/range.

Size and FitYou'll want to be sure the vehicle will support your weight. This is generally a concern primarily for big and tall individuals. In addition, you may want to acutally sit on the moped before buying to be sure that the seat height, handle bar position, seat cushioning, and so forth are comfortable.

Other FeaturesIf you'll be toting books, a brief case, grocery supplies, or other items, be sure there is storage available for those items. A locked trunk or storage box is particularly useful. A windshield can be good to deflect wind, insects, and even protect you in light rain.

Key start makes starting an electric moped easier and a battery indicator can help you avoid the catastrophe of running out of power when you least expect it.

X-Treme Scooters XB502

This electric moped features a 550W brushless hub motor mounted in the center of the rear wheel and four 12V, 10amp batteries that have an anticipated life of approximately 3 years. It comes in Blue, Burgandy, and Pink and includes a smart charger and optional pedals if desired.

Like any electric moped, it uses no gas, operates very quietly, and is a great deal of fun to drive. It's classified as a power assisted bicycle and therefore, requires no drivers license to operate on road ways and does not have to be registered or insured in the US.

X-Treme Scooters XB-600

This is a slightly larger, more powerful electric moped from X-Treme Scooters. It's seat height is 33.5" (versus 31" on the above model) and the length from wheel to wheel is 60" (versus the 57" on the model above). The XB-600 has a 600W rear hub motor and four 20amp batteries. It's available in Black and Blue.

It also has a top speed of 20 mph and a range of 25 miles. It also features aluminum wheels, key start, front and rear brakes, a variable speed twist throttle, lockable storage space, a tool kit, smart charger, and optional pedals. Head, tail, and brake lights are standard of course.

X-Treme Scooters XB-700 Electric Moped

Able to support two riders with a maximum weight capacity of 350lbs., this electric moped has a 700W rear hub motor and 26 lightweight lithium ion batteries to go the distance. It has a top speed just over 20 miles per hour and a range of 35+ miles . Battery life is estimated to be 7 to 10 years.

This moped is available in Blue or Black. It comes with a smart charger, tool kit, kickstand, windshield, front and rear brakes, a spring loaded seat, front and rear shocks, and a variable speed twist throttle. It also features aluminum wheels and has optional pedals.

Green Tec Electric Moped

Low operating costs and easy commutes make this electric moped another popular option. It features a 360W brushless rear hub motor and 48V, 12 amp SLA batteries. (SLA batteries are a bit heavier but cost less than half of most Lithium Ion batteries to replace) Battery life is estimated to be 2 years with daily use.

This moped has a top speed of 15 mph and a range of 30 miles+. It comes in Midnight Blue and Black. It has a steel frame, a basket in front and a locakable cargo box. It also features an electric assist brake system and front and rear suspension. Wheels are 18" x 2.125", allowing you to use standard bike tires and tubes. It has a maximum weight capacity of 250lbs.

EWheels EW500 Electric Moped

With a top speed of 21mph and a range of 31-43 miles, this electric moped is perfect for longer commutes. It even has removable battery that allows you to take the battery into your home or office and recharge without having to bring the vehicle indoors. It features a 500W rear drive brushless motor and 14 amp, 48V batteries.

This moped also features a variable speed twist throttle, key start, pedals to assist or to use in an emergency if charge is depleted, front and rear drum brakes, a headlight, cargo rack, and rear storage box. The battery indicator keeps you appraised of your charging status. This vehicle comes with a smart charger and tool kit. It is available in Black, Gray, and Orange.